There aren’t many things I like more than cycling. But remember, you don’t need to be a “cyclist” to ride a bike. Just push the pedals and look around. It works for me. I’ve been having a few health issues of late. Nothing new for me, just frustrating. I would ride, feel great, then the following day I would implode. And when I say implode I mean crash, hit rock bottom. Fatigue at a level that is difficult to explain. A DNA level tiredness. The rides I’m doing, 20-30 miles shouldn’t cause this type of reaction.
I decided to experiment. First, drink a full bottle of Skratch Labs before getting on the bike. I also try to eat something small. Then, while on the bike, no matter what…..drink one full bottle per hour. I’m like a camel and can go long distances with ZERO fluid intake.
This isn’t good. In fact, it’s just plain dumb.
But when you aren’t thirsty it can feel like a chore to take in the correct amount of fluid. If the ride is difficult, then I should also consume something small every twenty minutes. Could be a gel shot, a small cookie, a pickle, some energy gels or even a Snickers bar!
Next, post-ride I need to drink another full bottle but this time with amino acids. I drink Kion, but I’m sure like anything else there are numerous options. This puts another big dose of water in my body but it also blasts me with good aminos. I am trying ANYTHING I can people. I feel like I need to go to a nutritionist to see if there is something else going on.
This formula made a real difference. I’m not saying it was perfect but compared to the two rides before I felt worlds better. It’s no fun having a health level that always seems to be on the edge. When I hang with healthy friends I really feel a bit of jealousy. Or when I see healthy people play down the impact of COVID I know they have zero comprehension of what it means to be chronically ill. But, my goal is to do everything in my power to hold the line so I can keep these views in my line of sight.
Comments 9
Bad title, Dan. But glad you found the recipe.
What does it mean that my “comment is waiting for moderation”?
Author
Good question. Sometimes when someone makes a comment I don’t get an “approved” message until I click on that link. That’s probably it. I still get your question but it won’t be live until I hit “approved.” Imagine it like a giant ink stamp of old….
Author
I’m halfway there….
Have you tried LMNT? I use it all the time now. They have some funky flavours, too.
https://drinklmnt.com/
Author
No, I’ve not tried this but I’ll look for it. My main goal now is to be as healthy as humanly possible. Cut out 99% alcohol, keep getting good sleep and also try to reduce stress. The fitness stuff is some of the best part of my life. But I know my limits. I’m getting older Sean….anything you can do to stop that?
Dan, your comment about post ride recovery reminded me of a podcast performed by a well respected doctor who is known as The Carb Addiction Doc. Take the opportunity to watch this video explains the relationship of blood glucose with the muscles and the brain.
Best of luck.
Malcolm in Austin
Author
Hey Malcolm. I will look that up right now. if I can find a good baseline I might be able to do some real damage in this life of mine. Thank you.
Pls acknowledge the unfortunate title of this article. I know it was an innocent mistake.